Talk to Me Tuesday!

Introducing my new feature: Talk to Me Tuesdays!

On Tuesdays I will post an interview with another artist or at-home business person. I'm starting with my sister, Lauren (aka Maybeads). You can visit her etsy shop at: http://maybeads.etsy.com or her blog at http://maybeads.blogspot.com.

How did you get started lampworking? 

I had recently quit my job as a waitress to be home nights with my kids. But I wanted to do something—to learn something. So I took a bracelet-making class at JoAnne's. I loved the class, but I wasn't crazy about the bead selections. Each one looked like the last. So when I got home, I went online to see if I could find better beads. Well, once I found lampwork beads, I knew I was hooked!

What made you decide to take a lampworking class? 

I watched videos of lampwork demos online and I just knew I could do it. I just wanted a chance to try it. So I found a place in my area (TLD Design Center in Westmont, IL), and signed up.

Why the name “Maybeads?” 

My maiden name is May.

How did your first critter come about? 

I had found a penguin tutorial online and decided what the heck? I'd give it a chance. I had skipped the chapter on critter beads in my lampworking book (much like I skipped the chapter on colic when my first baby was born—it would never happen to me, right? Wrong!), so after I made the penguin, I went back to my book for more ideas. I was just thrilled that my kids actually recognized the bead as a penguin.

Do you have a favorite bead? 

Probably the wiener dog in a bun.

Is it ever hard to say goodbye to some of your adorable creations when they are bought? 

Yes and no. I get to have them for a while, and then I'm happy to see them fly off to their destinations.

What time of the day are you most productive? 

Whenever the kids aren't home or are sound asleep.

Do you always know what your beads are going to look like, or do they sometimes morph into something completely different as you go? 

Lots of morphing goes on. I learned how to make a hippo when I intended to make an elephant. 

What was the most original custom order you have received? 

Probably two penguin beads—one blue one with a cowboy hat and a yellow one with purple pom poms.

What part of making beads do you like the most? 

Watching the face develop on the critter. Adding the nose finishes it off and I get to finally meet what I've been working on.

How do you feel about your first bead show? 

I feel pretty good. I didn't actually work it, but my beads were sold on consignment. 

Where do you hope to see Maybeads in 5 years? 

I'd love to have a real studio.

What inspires you? 

Cartoons, dogs, animals everywhere.

Anything else you want to share? 

I like grilled cheese.